The 2014 World Cup marks the 20th time countries from around the globe have gathered to determine which national team stands above the rest. It's a truly worldwide tournament on a scale few, if any, other sporting events can match.

Four years ago, it was Spain emerging with the coveted trophy. The dominant European side certainly earned the title by knocking off talented sides from Germany and the Netherlands over the final two rounds, highlighted by a thrilling 1-0 extra-time win in the final.

Now La Roja are back with hope of defending their title. The AFP (via The Advertiser) passed along comments from Andres Iniesta, who scored the goal that won the title for Spain in 2010, about the opportunity in front of them:

It is the greatest feeling of happiness, joy and pride to be able to score the goal and win a World Cup, which is something very few countries have won.

It was a beautiful thing and now we have the chance to defend it.

We are going with the intention to retain it. We know we have to go step by step because a World Cup is incredibly difficult, but I think we should be confident that we will be able to do something significant at the World Cup.

Which team will win the 2014 World Cup?

BrazilSpainGermanyArgentinaOtherSubmit Votevote to see results

Which team will win the 2014 World Cup?

Brazil

28.5%

Spain

11.8%

Germany

21.2%

Argentina

16.3%

Other

22.2%

Total votes: 2,306

Spain is among four top contenders heading into the tournament. Germany, Argentina and host nation Brazil are the other three. There's a solid group of secondary hopefuls with a chance to raise the trophy if everything falls perfectly, but that quartet is a step above the rest at the outset.

As for the United States, getting drawn into the "Group of Death" alongside Germany, Portugal and Ghana was a major setback. While it doesn't mean the team doesn't have a chance to advance, the journey is definitely a lot more difficult than expected.

Head coach JurgenKlinsmann also dealt the fanbase a surprise by cutting all-time leading scorer Landon Donovan from the final roster. Ian Darke of ESPN summed up the thoughts of many:

Shocked by Landon Donovan being left out by USA. Big and bold call by Jurgen Klinsmann who knows he will face music if decision backfires.

Above all else, it should be an outstanding edition of the World Cup. From the high number of national teams with legitimate hopes of a deep run to the football-crazy host nation getting a chance to welcome the world, the elements are in place for a memorable month.

FIFA takes a lot of heat, and in many cases it's deserved. But one month every four years it puts on a spectacular showcase. This time should be no different. So let's check out the complete viewing schedule for all the action from Brazil.